More than 38,000 people took part, sharing their views on how access to the ponds should be managed in the years ahead.
Among the six options considered for the Kenwood Ladies’, Highgate Men’s and Hampstead Mixed Ponds, the most popular – backed by 86% of respondents – was to retain the current access arrangements, in which trans men and women can use the pond of their choice.
And while the consultation was not a referendum, it will be taken into account as part of the decision-making process.
Elsewhere on the Heath, restoration work at the Model Boating Pond is about to begin.
This project – generously supported by over £50,000 in public donations for which we are extremely grateful – will transform the island into a fully separated wildlife sanctuary through the removal of the causeway linking it to the shore.
Once complete, the island will offer a haven for nesting birds and other wildlife, protected from people and pets.
Nearly 100 square metres of new reedbed will also be created, alongside new wildflower planting and habitats for wetland birds, amphibians and reptiles.
Temporary fencing will be in place to keep visitors and wildlife safe, so thank you for bearing with us while these habitats establish. Information on supporting the Hampstead Heath Charity can be found at: cityoflondon.gov.uk/hampsteadheath.
It was a real pleasure to see our new café operator, Prue Freeman of Daisy Green, join the community in bidding a fond farewell to Alfonso D’Auria – a familiar and much-loved presence on Parliament Hill for more than 40 years.
And for those who were wondering, yes, the famous vongole pasta will remain on the menu! Plus, the D’Auria family will continue to supply ice cream on the Heath.
Prue and her team are already working with us on plans to refurbish the café and are eager to open as soon as possible. Temporary arrangements are in place so visitors can still enjoy a hot drink in the meantime.
It is of course our hardworking staff who keep the Heath running, and I was delighted that teams were recognised at the City Corporation’s Celebrating Our People awards.
The Swimming Team won ‘Team of the Year’, while the Golders Hill Zoo Team won ‘Runner Up Team of the Year’ – a well-deserved recognition of their dedication.
Finally, at the end of January we said goodbye to an outstanding colleague, Jonathan Meares, who served as head of conservation for the Heath and Highgate Wood for 18 years. Jonathan leaves a legacy, and we wish him a very happy retirement.
- Alderman Gregory Jones KC is chair of the City Corporation’s Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood, and Queen’s Park Committee.
